Yes, a person can poop and still be constipated. Constipation does not mean bowel movements stop entirely, but it refers to a reduction in the frequency and consistency of bowel movements.
If a person experiences constipation, it typically means that they have fewer than three bowel movements per week, though experiences vary.
Constipation can make stool harder and drier than usual, slowing the movement of stool within the body.
Some people may have frequent but incomplete bowel movements. They may return to the bathroom frequently to pass stool, and a doctor may describe this as constipation.
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- having fewer than three bowel movements per week
- passing lumpy, hard, or dry stool
- experiencing difficulty or pain while passing stool
- being unable to pass a full bowel movement (incomplete evacuation)
Other symptoms of constipation can include:
Numerous factors, including diet, lifestyle, medications, and health conditions, can cause constipation.
Diet
A person may experience constipation as a result of:
- not eating enough fiber
- not drinking enough hydrating fluids
- eating foods that upset the digestive tract, such as dairy products or highly processed foods
- eating foods that can be difficult to digest, such as meat, nuts, and seeds
Lifestyle
Constipation can also result from:
Medication
Constipation can be a side effect of various types of medication, including:
- iron supplements
- antacids that contain calcium and aluminum
- diuretics
- blood pressure medications, such as calcium channel blockers
- medications for diabetes
- antidepressants
- pain medicines that contain opioids
Health conditions
The following are some health issues that can cause constipation:
Generally, healthcare experts define constipation as having fewer than three bowel movements per week.
However, bowel movement patterns naturally vary from person to person — some people have one or more daily bowel movements, while others have one every few days.
It is important for individuals to recognize the regular patterns and consistency of their stool and to note any irregularities.
Generally, stool should have the following qualities:
- a smooth appearance
- a sausage-like shape
- a soft but firm texture
Additionally, having a bowel movement should be easy and not be painful.
The Bristol Stool Chart is a resource that helps healthcare professionals classify stool.
Many people experience occasional constipation that clears up on its own. However, some require medical attention and treatment.
Constipation may last from a few days to several weeks. More lasting, or chronic, constipation can lead to health complications, such as:
- hemorrhoids
- rectal bleeding
- anal fissures
- bowel obstruction
- fecal impaction
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- experiences persistent symptoms despite increasing fiber intake and regular exercise
- takes laxatives more than two or three times per week
- experiences blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum
- has severe stomach pain or inability to pass gas
- has vomiting or fever
- displays unintentional weight loss
When talking with the doctor, it is important to report any additional symptoms and any effects of constipation on day-to-day activities.
A person may need immediate medical attention if they have been constipated for a long time and experience intense abdominal pain and nausea or vomiting.
In rare cases, constipation and other bowel changes can indicate colorectal cancer. Anyone with a family history of colorectal cancer needs to speak with a doctor if they experience constipation for 3 or more days.
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Without treatment, bleeding in the digestive tract can lower a person’s red blood cell count and lead to anemia.
Doctors can treat constipation with prescription stool softeners and other types of laxatives.
People who have mild constipation may find dietary and lifestyle changes beneficial. Drinking more hydrating fluids, consuming more dietary fiber, and regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements.
Additionally, various over-the-counter laxatives are available at pharmacies and some supermarkets.
Prolonged constipation can result in an intestinal obstruction or blockage. It can also cause fecal impaction, in which hard stool becomes stuck in the rectum, preventing the person from passing stool effectively. Either condition may require surgery.
A person may also need surgery when constipation results from a structural issue, such as a stricture or rectal prolapse.
Depending on the severity of the condition and how the body responds to other treatments, the surgery may involve removing part of the colon, or large intestine.
A person may still poop when they are constipated, but bowel movements may be painful or difficult to pass.
Some people with constipation experience incomplete evacuation and feel the need to pass more stool even after using the bathroom.
It may be difficult or embarrassing to discuss constipation, even with a doctor. However, ignoring it can cause constipation to worsen and lead to complications, such as fecal impaction.
Doctors can easily treat constipation with medication. Lifestyle adjustments — such as eating more fiber, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly — can stimulate bowel movements.
A doctor may prescribe laxatives to relieve constipation. It may be a good idea to speak with a doctor before trying an over-the-counter variety.
